This issue of Mercy Impact is dedicated to Pope Francis. We honor his vision of…
Honoring Pope Francis and Welcoming a New Shepherd: Resources for Mercy Classrooms
With the passing of Pope Francis, our Church enters a time of reflection, prayer and tradition. As we honor his remarkable life and legacy, we also accompany the Church in the sacred process of electing a new pope.
For many of our students, this may be their first experience witnessing such a historic and spiritual moment in the life of the Church. To support Mercy educators during this time, we’ve gathered a set of resources that celebrate the life and teachings of Pope Francis and help students understand the process of choosing a new pope—from the gathering of the cardinals in the conclave to the significance of the white smoke.
We will continue to update this resource page as new materials become available. Please feel welcome to send us suggestions—or share resources and activities you’ve created for your own classroom.
Classroom Resources
The Religion Teacher’s Pope Activity Pack ($)
Step-by-Step Guide to How a Pope is Elected – Ascension Publishing
Prayers
Novena in Memory of Pope Francis – USCCB
A Prayer Service in Memory of Pope Francis – Loyola Press
Prayers for the Conclave: A Call to Prayer for Mercy Catholic School Communities
Videos
How to Elect a Pope (Papal Conclave Explained) – Fr. Mike Schmitz, Ascension Presents
Papal Conclave: How does the Catholic Church elect a new pope? – The Religion Teacher
How Do They Choose the Pope? – Busted Halo
Articles
Electing a New Pope – Saint Mary’s Press
In Loving Memory of Pope Francis – Sadlier Religion Blog
From a Mercy Perspective
We grieve the death of Pope Francis – Statement from the Sisters of Mercy
Honoring the Life and Legacy of Pope Francis – A message from Mercy Education
A Letter to Pope Francis – Reflection by Sister Ana Siufi, RSM
Video: Sister Mary Scullion, RSM, shares about the time she met Pope Francis in Philadelphia when he visited the United States in 2015. Sr. Mary attended Pope Francis’ funeral in Rome on Saturday, April 26, 2025.
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